Substitute House Bill No. 5508 establishes a task force to study municipal historic district commissions (HDCs) and related issues, including the potential exemption of municipal properties from HDC oversight, the creation of a nonbinding review process for alterations to municipally owned buildings, and the establishment of a statewide appeals board for HDC decisions. The task force will consist of appointed members from the General Assembly and the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, and it is required to submit a report by January 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill mandates that HDCs broadcast their hearings on a public Internet website, ensuring greater transparency in their operations.

The bill also amends Section 10-416c of the general statutes, replacing existing language with new definitions and provisions related to the rehabilitation of certified historic structures. Key insertions include the definition of "certified rehabilitation" for income-generating residential uses of two to four units and the establishment of a tax credit system for owners rehabilitating certified historic structures. The tax credit will be available in the year the structure is placed in service, with provisions for carrying forward unused credits and transferring them among owners. Significant deletions include the removal of specific language regarding tax credit allocation, which has been updated to reflect new percentages based on project nature, with a cap of $31.7 million in total tax credits available per fiscal year. The bill aims to enhance historic preservation efforts while providing financial incentives for property owners.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-147i, 7-147k, 10-416c
PD Joint Favorable Substitute: 7-147i, 7-147k, 10-416c
File No. 275: 7-147i, 7-147k, 10-416c
APP Joint Favorable: 7-147i, 7-147k, 10-416c
File No. 733: 10-416c